BREADS’ initiatives for marginalised young people and women help them unlock equal rights, power and opportunities for all, and a feminist future where no one is left behind. Central to this vision of an equal world, is the awakening of young minds, especially of young women and adolescent girls, who are both the means and the end of the empowerment process. As part of its advocacy, BREADS supported a national seminar on reimagining gender roles with Don Bosco College, Angadikadavu, Kerala. Organised by the department of Social Work between 23-25 January 2025, in online and offline formats, the seminar was a dynamic platform for students to gain valuable perspectives on reimagining gender roles today.
Besides the seven paper presentations on critical social issues, the students were facilitated by eminent professionals including the local Member of Legislature, Adv Sunny Joseph, to examine gender roles in contemporary society through an intersectional lens: recognising how factors such as race, class, and socio-economic status intersect with gender to shape diverse experiences. An in-depth exploration of the relationship between gender dynamics and societal development acknowledged that despite progress, gender-based discrimination, societal biases, and unequal opportunities persist, reinforcing the need for collective efforts through education, policy, and community action to foster equality and mutual respect for all genders.
The students learned to recognise and prevent harassment in workplaces through the implementation of the POSH Act 2013. The facilitator stressed the importance of self-care, encouraging women to set boundaries, know their rights, and seek help when needed. She urged attendees to become change-makers by raising awareness, supporting victims, and promoting safety to create respectful, inclusive workplaces. In discussing gender and sex, the students broadened their understanding beyond biological attributes to societal roles and expectations. The session examined the misuse of gender in societal ideologies, touching on family roles, gender associations with colours and toys, schools, teachers’ perceptions, and sports, underscoring the deep influence of gender biases on various aspects of life.
The session on gender equality emphasised equal rights for all genders, highlighting transgender rights under the Indian Constitution, elaborating on legal provisions for the protection of transgenders and women from harassment. The examination of gender equality and legal frameworks brought up the weak enforcement of laws, perpetuating gender-based violence and discrimination and the adverse impact of misuse of legal provisions by some people. Economic challenges, such as wage gaps, and the underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles, emphasise the importance of the Women’s Reservation Bill. Additionally, the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, including societal resistance and lack of acceptance, further underline the need for inclusive reforms.
Social workers play a vital role in bridging these gaps by fostering awareness and advocating for marginalised groups. A discussion on gender issues and the role of social workers highlighted challenges such as gender-biased discrimination, sex-selective abortions, domestic violence, child marriage, limited political representation, dowry practices, and unequal access to education. Some of the causes of these issues were also discussed: historical patriarchal structures, cultural and religious traditions, and the psychological internalisation of gender roles as significant factors. Besides the thought-provoking discussions, the cultural programmes and competitions in various styles were a celebration of the young participants’ talents and creativity. The beautifully decorated venue, the electrifying performances, and the high-quality discussions demonstrated the meticulously planning and execution of the seminar, underscoring the theme: For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.
